Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 21: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) held a significant meeting with captains, coaches, and managers at its headquarters on March 20, in preparation for the upcoming 18th season of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL).
During this gathering, representatives from all ten IPL franchises shared their insights and suggestions regarding various playing conditions. Following a collective agreement, several important updates have been made.
-Saliva Use for Ball Maintenance
Starting from the IPL 2025 season, bowlers will be allowed to use saliva to shine the cricket ball. This decision comes after discussions with all ten teams and signifies a return to traditional methods of ball maintenance, lifting the previous ban that was enforced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
-Wet Ball Replacement to Tackle Dew
To mitigate the effects of dew during evening matches, the team bowling second will have the option to request a ball change after the 10th over, as per an IPL press release. The bowling captain can make this request regardless of visible dew. Upon request, umpires will be required to replace the ball with one of similar wear and tear, without allowing the bowling team to select the replacement.
Moreover, umpires can change the ball at any point before the 10th over if it is too wet, damaged, or lost. If a captain seeks a ball change in the 11th over due to its condition, umpires will assess the situation and approve the request if warranted. Any further requests after a few overs solely due to dew will also necessitate a mandatory ball replacement.
-Introduction of a New Code of Conduct
This season will see the implementation of a new Code of Conduct, which includes a demerit points system and suspension points valid for 36 months, effective from IPL 2025.
-Enhanced DRS Features
The Decision Review System (DRS) will now cover height-based no-ball reviews and wide-ball reviews for deliveries outside the off-stump. The updated DRS will utilize Hawk-Eye technology and ball-tracking to help umpires make precise and consistent decisions.
